Call for Process Optimization and Supply Chain Efficiency Consultant- Food System Challenge

Berytech is a leading organization in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Lebanon, that aims to provide a conducive environment for the creation and development of startups, through incubation, business support, counseling, funding, networking, and company hosting, hence taking part in the economic revival of the country, participating in wealth and job creation, and retaining graduates and high-level skills in Lebanon.

The Food System Challenge supports businesses to solve core challenges of the food system in Lebanon, and more specifically in the sectors of dairy and meat production (cow, goat, sheep), cereals and pulses (and its by-products), protected horticulture (Classical green houses, hydroponics, and aquaponics), and domesticated edible herbs and plants.

The Food System Challenge is implemented by the World Food Programme (WFP) and Berytech through support from the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Throughout FSC’s previous and current cycles, the program supported over 40 SMEs to fortify the Lebanese food system to create a more sustainable ecosystem.

Najjar Foods is a leading producer of traditional Lebanese food products, including Burghol, Kishk, and Zaatar, with a focus on supporting local farmers and achieving sustainable growth. The company is undergoing a transformation project to modernize its operations, improve efficiency, and enhance supply chain practices. To support this transition, Najjar Foods requires targeted technical assistance in process optimization and supply chain management to increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

The objective of this technical assistance is to deliver comprehensive solutions for improving Najjar Foods' production and supply chain systems. By addressing key operational inefficiencies, enhancing procurement strategies, and reducing energy and material costs, the consultant(s) will help Najjar Foods achieve sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness.

The consultant will be required to deliver the following services:

Process Optimization:

1. Conduct a comprehensive audit of existing production workflows to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
2. Develop and implement strategies to streamline processes, reduce waste, and improve resource utilization.
3. Introduce best practices in production planning, scheduling, and equipment usage to minimize downtime and maximize throughput.
4. Design and implement a system for monitoring and improving process efficiency.
5. Provide hands-on training for staff on new workflows and technologies to ensure adoption and sustainability.

Supply Chain Efficiency

1. Evaluate current procurement strategies, supplier agreements, and raw material management practices.
2. Design an optimized supply chain strategy, including long-term agreements with suppliers to stabilize costs and ensure consistent quality.
3. Develop and implement an inventory management system to reduce holding costs, minimize stockouts, and optimize reorder points.
4. Provide training for key personnel on inventory control techniques and procurement best practices.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

1. Assess the operational impact of recently installed energy-efficient equipment and facilities.
2. Provide recommendations for maximizing energy savings through improved production scheduling and equipment usage and controlling energy losses by developing a framework for ongoing energy monitoring and reporting to track savings and identify further opportunities.

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

1. Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress and measure the impact of implemented changes. (the KPIs are to be shared with the FSC team for validation)
2. Provide monitoring tools and templates for regular performance assessment in production and supply chain operations.
3. Deliver a final evaluation report summarizing project achievements, cost savings, and recommendations for future improvements.

The consultancy is expected to span 5 months, with specific on-site days to be agreed upon based on project milestones and progress.

1. A comprehensive process audit report with actionable recommendations.
2. An optimized production workflow design and implementation plan.
3. A detailed supply chain strategy and inventory management framework.
4. Detailed SOPs for supply chain management and operations.
5. Training materials and sessions for staff on production and supply chain best practices.
6. Energy efficiency assessment and a plan for maximizing solar panel utilization.
7. Monitoring tools and templates for tracking KPIs.
8. A final evaluation report with key insights, achievements, and future recommendations.

The selected consultant should have:

• Proven expertise in process optimization and supply chain management in the food production industry.
• Strong experience in inventory control systems and energy efficiency practices.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver hands-on training and capacity building for SME staff.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices and operational efficiency solutions.
• Knowledge of the local and regional food production landscape is preferred.